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High temperatures and humidity couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of workers from across Central New York, including members of the University community, who gathered at Onondaga Lake Parkway on June 9 for the annual Syracuse WorkForce Run.

Due to the heat, organizers adjusted the format from a 5K run to a 2-mile walk. The event raised funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York.

Syracuse University turned out in force with 340 participants—the second-highest total among all competing companies and organizations. Otto the Orange was on hand to rally the Orange team members.

Each June, the in the Office of Human Resources sponsors the University’s participation in the WorkForce Run as part of its mission to empower employees to live balanced, healthy lives.

“We were thrilled to have record numbers of Syracuse University employees celebrating health, teamwork and Orange pride,” says Alex Dietrich, interim chief human resources officer. “The WorkForce Run embodies what we believe at the University—that focusing on well-being is essential to who we are as an institution. When our employees thrive, our entire university community benefits.”

For many, the WorkForce Run is an annual tradition. Jon French, associate teaching professor and undergraduate director of chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences, has participated since 2018, when the event was known as the JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge. He keeps coming back for the sense of community it creates.

“It’s fun to get out with friends and colleagues in a different setting—to see people off campus, outside of a conference room or a Zoom meeting,” he says. “You connect with others who maybe you didn’t realize also had an interest in running. It’s also great that it’s open to all ability levels.”

The event also drew first-timers, including Elisha Glover, a custodian with Facilities Services who had signed up three years in a row but was finally able to participate this year.

“I was determined to get it done this year,” she says. “I found the event because I’m always trying to stay healthy and informed, so I often sign up for things through the Wellness Initiative. My motto: if you fail, keep on trying!”